Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Frisco, Texas

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit for Fire Alarm Installation in Frisco?

Yes, permits are required for fire alarm system installation in Frisco, Texas. The Frisco Fire Prevention Office (Fire Marshal) handles fire alarm permits and requires plan review before installation. Additionally, all fire alarm contractors must hold a valid Texas State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) license, and an alarm permit must be obtained within 30 days of installation.

Frisco Fire Alarm Permit Requirements

The City of Frisco has adopted the 2021 International Fire Code with Local Amendments. Fire alarm work requires permits from the Fire Prevention Office.

Permits Required For

Fire Alarm Systems (new and modifications)
Commercial or Residential Sprinkler Systems
Underground Fire Mains
Access Control Systems (fire-related)
Hood Suppression Systems
Emergency Responder Radio Coverage
Firefighter Air Replenishment Systems

Electronic Plan Review

Effective September 27, 2021, Frisco Fire Prevention Office offers electronic permit submission. Create an account to submit permit applications online.

Texas State Fire Marshal Licensing (Required)

Fire alarm contractors must hold valid SFMO licensing under the Texas Department of Insurance.

Company Requirements

Valid SFMO fire alarm company license
Designated Planning Superintendent with NICET Level III or ESA Level III certification
Must pass SFMO Statutes and Rules examination

Individual Technician Requirements

SFMO fire alarm technician registration
Background check and fingerprinting
Technical exam (may be waived with NICET II or ESA II)

Alarm Company Certification Requirements

All alarm companies must be licensed through the Texas DPS Private Security Bureau as required by Texas Occupation Code Chapter 1702.

Certification to City

Alarm companies must send certification to the Frisco alarm administrator within 30 days of installation. The certificate must include:

Company name, address, and telephone number
Current state license number
Installation date and location

Alarm Permit Requirements

Separate from the installation permit, an alarm permit is required for any system that summons emergency services.

Who Needs an Alarm Permit

Any person or business operating an alarm system with the intent to summon emergency services—whether monitored or not—must have an alarm permit. Exception: Standalone smoke detectors not connected to an alarm panel do not require a permit.

Timeline

An alarm permit must be obtained within 30 days of alarm system installation.

Penalties for No Permit

$250 penalty for operating without a permit (as of January 1, 2017)
Additional citation possible with fine up to $500 per violation

False Alarm Fees

Frisco tracks false alarms on a rolling 12-month basis:

Alarms 1-2: Free (no charge)
Alarms 3+: $75.00 each

Multi-Tenant Buildings

For buildings with multiple tenants:

Building manager typically holds permit for the building's fire alarm system
Each tenant is responsible for permits for additional alarm systems (burglar, panic, robbery)

NFPA 72 Compliance

All fire alarm systems in Frisco must comply with NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code:

Design and installation per NFPA 72 requirements
Annual inspections required by licensed technicians
Testing and maintenance per NFPA 72 schedules
Proper documentation and record keeping

Inspection Requirements

The Fire Prevention Office conducts inspections for new construction and existing commercial buildings.

Inspection Schedule

Standard Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
After Hours: Must schedule 48 hours in advance; additional fee may apply

Annual Requirements

Commercial fire alarm systems require annual inspection per NFPA 72 and Frisco Fire Department regulations.

Application Process

Fire Prevention Permit

Create account on electronic review system
Submit permit application with plans
Fire Marshal reviews for code compliance
Permit issued upon approval
Schedule inspections during and after installation

Alarm User Permit

Apply online at alarmpermits.friscotexas.gov
Select "New Alarm Users"
Complete application and pay online
Enter email for paperless correspondence

Contact Information

Fire Prevention Office (Fire Marshal)

Phone: (972) 292-6320
Website: friscotexas.gov/337/Fire-Prevention-Office

Alarm Permits (Police Department)

Address: 7200 Stonebrook Pkwy
Phone: 972-292-6062
Email: pdalarms@friscotexas.gov

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

Use electronic submission: Frisco's online system speeds up plan review
Verify SFMO licensing: Ensure company and technicians are properly licensed
Submit certification promptly: The 30-day deadline for city notification is strictly enforced
Plan for inspections: Schedule during standard hours to avoid additional fees
Document everything: Maintain records for annual inspection requirements
Educate clients: Explain false alarm fees to system users

Related Resources

For comprehensive licensing information, see our guide to Texas Low Voltage License Requirements.

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